Abstract: A method for analyzing fault modes that may cause a fault is presented in which a multi-point analysis may be performed to identify multi fault modes that are interrelated in causing the fault. The method provides for easy and systematic switching from a top-down to bottom-up approaches of analysis to insure accurate and easy to perform multi-point analysis of the related fault modes.

Abstract: A system and method for performing a user supervised search which uses algorithm with parameters that are updated based on the review of the search results by the user.

Abstract: A failure reporting system which includes a plurality of reporting tools for reporting detected failures in a system to be observed is provided. The reporting tools include at least two tools from the group consisting of an audio reporting tool, a visual reporting tool and a text reporting tool. The audio reporting tool includes at least one microphone, the visual reporting tool includes at least one video camera and the text reporting tool includes at least one keyboard. The system also includes a control system for activating a selected number from the plurality of reporting tools at a time and an audio recognition unit for discriminating between audible reports and other audible information.